Balancing Corporate Strategy and Creative Storytelling with Zoe Melarkey

In this engaging and wide-ranging episode of “Just Curious…”, Nicky Regazzoni and George Blizzard are joined by Zoe Melarkey, Head of Communications at Ocado Retail, to explore the evolving world of consumer brand PR. With over 25 years of experience in both agency and in-house roles, Zoe reflects on her dynamic career working with major UK brands including Purplebricks, npower, MFI, and Ocado. From nostalgic tales of early internet days at Berkeley Communications, to leading multi-channel campaigns and navigating crises, Zoe shares honest insights and lessons from her journey.

Zoe reveals behind-the-scenes stories, including working with Nigella Lawson, a clever PR stunt with the boy band Blue, and the realities of handling a high-profile crisis in today’s post-truth world. And she discusses the importance of authenticity, the shift towards unpolished, real-time content, and how to balance corporate and creative priorities, particularly when it comes to working with influencers and agency partners.

The episode also touches on the challenges of measuring PR impact, the growing role of AI in communications work, and how to rebuild trust and reputation in times of crisis. Zoe shares candid reflections on balancing senior leadership with family life, the myth of “having it all,” and why being open, honest, and human is key to building brand loyalty.

Packed with real-life examples, thoughtful perspectives, and practical advice, this episode offers a rich insight into the realities of modern PR, from campaign ideation to crisis management and everything in between.

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“Just Curious…” is a podcast about image, reputation and communications. Hosted by The PR Network’s co-founders George Blizzard and Nicky Regazzoni, the show is aimed at a senior business and comms leader audience. It explores all aspects through frank conversations with leading personalities across the worlds of business, sport, marketing and PR. Nicky and George have spent 20 years building a phenomenal network of leaders and in this series, they'll be sharing their unique stories. Curiosity means ‘care’ in Latin, and The PR Network is known for caring deeply about everyone in its network. Each episode features personal journeys and expert insights, and the whole series is packed with incredible tips for building, sustaining and repairing reputations.

Find The PR Network online at www.thepr.network or follow us on LinkedIn or Instagram. You can also connect with Nicky Regazzoni and George Blizzard on LinkedIn.

• No. of episodes: 7
• Latest episode: 2025-05-28
• Business Management Marketing

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